William Illingworth

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT WILLIAM ILLINGWORTH

William is a Director in Savills’ Central London Rating team, specialising in business rates for London’s office market. With over a decade of experience, he provides expert advice on rating valuation, legal complexities, and case law to secure the best outcomes for clients.He advises occupiers, landlords, and developers on strategies to mitigate business rates liability through appeals, negotiations, and applications for relief. His expertise extends to presenting cases at Valuation Tribunal as both an advocate and expert witness.Beyond client work, William plays a key role in team development, mentoring junior staff, leading placement and graduate programs, and supporting APC training. His commitment to fostering a culture of learning has been instrumental in strengthening the team’s capabilities and ensuring future growth.William holds a BSc (Hons) in Property Agency and Management from the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester. His dissertation explored the impact of higher vacancy rates and empty property rates on commercial property management, sparking his interest in non-domestic rates.Actively involved in the industry, William has been a key committee member of the London Rating Network since 2017 and in 2025 was elected onto the committee of the Rating Surveyors’ Association where he previously served for five years, representing Affiliate/Junior members.What people are saying:\"William successfully resolved persistent overcharging issues we had been experiencing with the Council. Their intervention led to a quick resolution, clear explanation of the account reconciliation process and refunds received. Additionally, despite a legislative bar to formally appeal they identified and negotiated a backdated claim with the VOA, resulting in a six-figure cash refund and continued rates exemption. We highly recommend Savills and have instructed them to undertake further work due to this success.\"- ING Bank